Bibliograph

The science of Middle-Earth, a new understanding of Tolkien and his world, illustrated by Arnaud Rafaelian ; edited by Roland Lehoucq, Loïc Mangin, and Jean-Sébastien Steyer ; translated by Tina Kover

Type

Label

The science of Middle-Earth, a new understanding of Tolkien and his world, illustrated by Arnaud Rafaelian ; edited by Roland Lehoucq, Loïc Mangin, and Jean-Sébastien Steyer ; translated by Tina Kover

Language

eng

Bibliography note

Includes bibliographical references

Illustrations

mapsillustrations

Index

no index present

Literary Form

non fiction

Main title

The science of Middle-Earth

Nature of contents

bibliography

Responsibility statement

illustrated by Arnaud Rafaelian ; edited by Roland Lehoucq, Loïc Mangin, and Jean-Sébastien Steyer ; translated by Tina Kover

Sub title

a new understanding of Tolkien and his world

Summary

The surprising and illuminating look at how Tolkien's love of science and natural history shaped the creation of his Middle Earth, from its flora and fauna to its landscapes. The world J.R.R. Tolkien created is one of the most beloved in all of literature, and continues to capture hearts and imaginations around the world. From Oxford to ComiCon, the Middle Earth is analyzed and interpreted through a multitude of perspectives. But one essential facet of Tolkien and his Middle Earth has been overlooked: science. This great writer, creator of worlds and unforgettable character, and inventor of language was also a scientific autodidact, with an innate interest and grasp of botany, paleontologist and geologist, with additional passions for archeology and chemistry. Tolkien was an acute observer of flora and fauna and mined the minds of his scientific friends about ocean currents and volcanoes. It is these layers of science that give his imaginary universe--and the creatures and characters that inhabit it--such concreteness. Within this gorgeously illustrated edition, a range of scientists--from astrophysicists to physicians, botanists to volcanologists--explore Tolkien's novels, poems, and letters to reveal their fascinating scientific roots. A rewarding combination of literary exploration and scientific discovery, The Science of Middle Earth reveals the hidden meaning of the Ring's corruption, why Hobbits have big feet, the origins of the Dwarves, the animals which inspired the dragons, and even whether or not an Ent is possible. Enhanced by superb original drawings, this transportive work will delight both Tolkien fans and science lovers and inspire us to view both Middle Earth--and our own world--with fresh eyes

Table Of Contents

Tolkien, lord of the sciences -- Tolkien and the sciences: a relationship with many faces -- World-building -- An anchoring in space and time -- A complex environment -- Spectacular settings -- Remarkable characters -- A fantastical bestiary

Classification